Walking tours remain the smartest way to explore Venice, letting you dodge the crowds and discover the real city behind the tourist facade. The best tours focus on specific neighborhoods or themes – I especially recommend the “Secret Venice” walks through quiet local districts and Jewish Ghetto tours that bring the city’s Hebrew heritage to life.
Literary fans shouldn’t miss tours following Commissario Brunetti’s detective trails, while history buffs will appreciate expert-led walks covering Venice’s powerful maritime past. For first-timers, classic tours hitting St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge provide essential orientation. Let’s look at our favorite Venice walking tours that give the best bang for your buck.
Good To Know
- Explore Venice’s hidden gems, narrow streets, and authentic character through immersive walking tours that take you off the beaten path.
- Discover the captivating history and iconic landmarks of Venice’s city center with expert guides and skip-the-line access.
- Explore the rich Jewish heritage of the historic Cannaregio district and visit the renowned synagogues.
- Enjoy the world of Donna Leon’s Commissario Brunetti mysteries by visiting the locations featured in the novels.
- Experience a blend of famous landmarks and lesser-known Venetian traditions, including the Rialto Market and insights into Carnival and masks.
Hidden Venice: Unusual Walking Tour
This unique walking tour takes you on an immersive exploration of Venice’s hidden gems. Led by a local expert, you’ll discover the labyrinth of narrow streets and unusual places in the San Marco area.
The 2-3 hour walking tour provides an opportunity to experience the city’s authentic character away from the crowds. Along the way, you can opt for a 30-minute guided gondola ride, adding a romantic touch to the experience.
The tour includes audio-receiver devices for groups over 10, ensuring you don’t miss a word. However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and the walking tour may be postponed or refunded in case of exceptionally high tides.
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Venice: City Center Historical Guided Walking Tour
Discover the captivating history and hidden gems of Venice’s city center on this guided walking tour. With skip-the-line access, you’ll explore off-the-beaten-tracks with an expert guide, marveling at the spectacular monuments of Venice.
The tour covers the city’s five areas, allowing you to customize your route and discover its rich past. Lasting 1.5 to 2.5 hours, this walking tour provides an immersive experience, from exploring the History Gallery to the Venice in the past VR Experience.
For larger groups, audio-receiver devices ensure everyone can hear the guide’s insights. Whether you’re a couple, solo traveler, or family, this highly-rated tour promises a memorable and informative journey through the heart of the Floating City.
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Venice: Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour and Synagogue Tour Option
The Jewish Ghetto walking tour takes visitors on a 2-3 hour guided exploration of Venice’s historic Cannaregio district and its influential Jewish community. Participants will discover landmarks, learn about Jewish history, and enjoy local culture.
The tour highlights the Campo del Ghetto Nuovo, a fortified island founded in 1516, and its significant bas-reliefs. Visitors can also opt for a guided synagogue tour, visiting the Levantine and Spanish synagogues. However, the Jewish Museum is currently closed for restoration.
Modest attire covering the belly, shoulders, and knees is required for the synagogue visit. Priced at $42.97 per person, this tour offers an insightful look into Venice’s rich Jewish heritage.
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In the Footsteps of Commissario Brunetti by Donna Leon Walking Tour
Fans of Donna Leon’s Commissario Brunetti mystery series can enjoy the Venetian detective’s world on this 2-hour walking tour. Exploring off-the-beaten-path areas of Venice, the tour visits locations featured in the novels, including the Questura (police headquarters). With a maximum group size of 10 travelers, the intimate tour offers personalized attention.
Meeting at Campo dei Gesuiti, the tour is accessible via public transportation. While not wheelchair-friendly, most travelers can participate. An access fee may apply for certain dates. Afterward, guests receive recommendations for local restaurants and lesser-known attractions. With 125 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this is a must-do for fans of the popular crime fiction series.
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Secret Venice, an Unusual Walk – Private Walking Tour
Explore the hidden wonders of Venice on this private walking tour, which blends the city’s iconic landmarks with lesser-known gems. Over the course of 3 hours, you’ll explore the Rialto Market, uncover lurid tales of the old red-light district, and learn about Carnival and masks. Along the way, you’ll discover why Venice has so few wells, and gain insights into the city’s rich history and local traditions.
Capped at 8 participants, this tour offers a personalized experience, with guided services provided. The meeting point is at Campo San Giacomo di Rialto, and the tour ends at Campo San Rocco, in front of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco.
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Venice “Cichetti” and Wine Small-Group Walking Tour
Stepping away from the hidden wonders of the city, this Venice “Cichetti” and Wine Small-Group Walking Tour offers a delectable insight into the local culinary scene. Over the course of this 3-hour experience, you will savor a variety of traditional Venetian cichetti, or small side dishes, accompanied by three glasses of local wine. A knowledgeable guide provides cultural context and insider tips as the group explores off-the-beaten-path venues.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, this intimate tour promises a personalized and authentic taste of Venetian gastronomy. Conveniently located near public transportation, the tour begins at Enoteca Al Volto and concludes at the Basilica S.Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, allowing easy exploration before or after.
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Private Tour: Venice Half-Day Walking Tour
This private walking tour of Venice offers a personalized exploration of the city’s highlights. Led by a professional guide, the 3-hour tour allows you to customize the itinerary based on your interests in architecture, Renaissance art, or food and wine.
You’ll visit iconic sites like St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Fish Market, with exterior visits only. The tour includes an appetizer and glass of wine at a Venetian bacaro. Keep in mind that churches may be inaccessible on Sunday mornings due to religious ceremonies.
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Venice Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Travelers can embark on a delightful Venice Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours, which has earned a remarkable 140 reviews and a coveted Badge of Excellence. This guided tour offers a tantalizing culinary experience, including Venetian cookies, cicchetti (local tapas), a Venetian meatball, polenta tasting, a main pasta dish, and the iconic tiramisu.
Guests will also get to savor a secret dish. The tour includes transportation and gratuity, with a maximum of 12 travelers. The meeting and end point is at Despar Teatro Italia, and the itinerary and menu are subject to changes. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
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Private Doges Palace and Saint Marks Basilica Walking Tour
Enjoy the grandeur of Venice’s iconic landmarks on this Private Doges Palace and Saint Marks Basilica Walking Tour. Recommended by 98% of travelers, this 210-minute experience offers skip-the-line access to both the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. Explore the palace’s grand halls, prisons, and the famous Bridge of Sighs, while learning from your private guide.
Marvel at the breathtaking Byzantine architecture and golden mosaics of St. Mark’s Basilica. The tour is accessible by wheelchair and stroller, and near public transportation. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, with a flexible cancellation policy. On certain dates, a €5 access fee may apply for visitors outside of Venice.
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Unusual Venice Walking Tour
For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Venice, the Unusual Venice Walking Tour offers a chance to explore the city’s hidden gems. With over 555 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this shared walking tour takes visitors to Marco Polo’s House, St. Mark’s Square, and the Rialto Bridge, among other lesser-known treasures.
Guided by qualified, experienced professionals, the tour can be customized to include a shared gondola ride. While most travelers can participate, the tour may be postponed or refunded due to exceptional high tides. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and the group size is limited to 15 travelers.
Reviews are generally positive, though some mention issues with the guide’s English and audio quality.
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Venetian Cicchetti Street Food & Sightseeing Walking Tour With Local Guide
This walking tour offers a delightful introduction to Venice’s local culinary culture and iconic landmarks. Explore the city’s picturesque Rialto Bridge, Campo San Polo, and Basilica dei Frari with an English-speaking local guide.
Discover the traditional cicchetti (street food snacks) and authentic bacari (bars) for a taste of the city’s culinary heritage. The small-group format ensures a more personal experience. Confirmation is provided at booking, and vegetarian options are available with advance notice.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and a moderate level of fitness is required. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour. Don’t miss this chance to learn about the vibrant flavors and sights of Venice.
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Hidden Venice Walking Tour & Gondola Ride Experience
Amidst the maze-like streets of Venice, this hidden walking tour and gondola ride experience offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s lesser-known gems. The 118 reviewed tour includes a shared 30-minute gondola ride and an introductory walking tour, with multilingual assistance provided.
The walking portion is led by a qualified, experienced guide, offering insightful commentary. While hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, the meeting point near St. Mark’s Square is conveniently located. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour may be bilingual. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Whether seeking a deeper understanding of Venice or a unique perspective, this tour provides an immersive and memorable experience.
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Venice Walking Tour of Most-Famous Sites Monuments & Attractions With Top Guide
Exploring Venice’s most iconic landmarks, this walking tour guides visitors through the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. Led by a top guide, the tour covers the most famous sites, monuments, and attractions in just a few hours. Travelers can expect to see St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and other must-see sights, all while learning fascinating insights.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour provides a personalized experience. Pickup and drop-off at designated meeting points is included, and the tour is accessible for strollers. For those looking to efficiently discover Venice’s highlights, this is an excellent option recommended by 95% of travelers.
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Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour for Kids and Families
Although designed with families and children in mind, the Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour provides an engaging and educational experience for all ages. With a duration of approximately 2.5 hours, the tour is suitable for children above 6 years old, who must be accompanied by their parents at all times.
Highlights include exploring scenic canal ways, the Rialto Bridge, Piazza San Marco, Marco Polo House, and Campo San Bartolomeo, while learning about the city’s history and culture through interactive activities, trivia, and a treasure hunt for kids. This private or small group tour, with gratuities included, comes highly recommended, with a 100% traveler approval rating and a Badge of Excellence.
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Morning Walking Tour of Venice Plus Gondola Ride
For travelers looking to experience the best of Venice’s sights and attractions, the Morning Walking Tour of Venice Plus Gondola Ride is an excellent choice. Led by a local guide, this 2-hour walking tour explores the city’s narrow streets and offers insights into Venetian history.
The tour is then combined with a 30-minute gondola ride, providing a unique perspective of the iconic canals. Included in the experience are gratuities, and the tour starts at 9:00 AM from a convenient meeting point. While the gondola ride may be suspended in bad weather, the walking tour is an excellent way for most travelers to discover Venice’s charm.
Groups over 5 may be split into smaller gondolas, and a bilingual guide is available during the off-season.
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Glass Lampwork Workshop and Walking Tour in Murano
The Glass Lampwork Workshop and Walking Tour in Murano offers visitors an immersive experience in the heart of Venice’s renowned glass-making district. With a 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides a guided journey through a glass artisan’s workshop, showcasing the intricate art of glass lampwork or blowing.
Participants will also visit the showroom of the oldest glass factory in the world, learning about the rich history and tradition of Murano’s glass-making legacy. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, gratuities, and the opportunity to create a glass bead for an additional fee. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the captivating world of Venetian glass.
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Venice: Secret Corners Private Walking Tour
Step away from the crowds and discover the hidden gems of Venice on this private walking tour. Recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour takes you through the city’s quiet back streets, led by a knowledgeable local guide. With only your group participating, you’ll explore lesser-known sites and learn about Venetian history and culture.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Travelers should have moderate physical fitness. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and a €5 access fee may be required for those staying outside of Venice on certain dates.
This private walking tour offers a unique and insightful experience away from the typical tourist crowds.
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Best of Venice Walking Tour With Gondola, St Marks Basilica and Doge’S Palace
Discover the highlights of Venice on this comprehensive walking tour that includes a gondola ride and skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. Led by a licensed guide, you’ll explore the city’s must-see attractions, from the bustling Piazza San Marco to the serene canals.
Enjoy a scenic gondola ride and admire the stunning Byzantine architecture of St. Mark’s Basilica. Then, bypass the lines and step inside the Doge’s Palace, a magnificent Gothic-style landmark.
With confirmation provided at booking and a maximum of 10 travelers, this tour ensures a personalized experience rain or shine. Minimum 2 participants are required, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
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Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride
A scenic gondola glide and walking exploration await visitors seeking to enjoy the captivating sights and storied history of the floating city.
This 3-hour tour combines a guided walking journey through narrow alleys and across stone bridges with a 30-minute gondola ride along the Grand Canal and smaller waterways in the Fenice neighborhood.
Highlights include passing by landmark sites like Teatro la Fenice, Rialto Bridge, and Scala del Bovolo. No need for a hotel pickup or entry fees, as the meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation.
With over 3,500 positive reviews, this tour offers an excellent way to discover Venice’s famous and hidden gems.
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Venice Landmarks: Walking Tour Plus St Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace Tours
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This comprehensive tour provides visitors a unique opportunity to explore Venice’s renowned landmarks and iconic sites. The half-day walking tour covers St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto area, offering skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Guests will enjoy a guided tour of these magnificent structures, learning about their rich history and architecture.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and appropriate attire is required to visit St. Mark’s Basilica. Accessibility may be limited due to Venice’s unique morphological structure. Bilingual tours are available from November to March, and there may be access fees for day-trip visitors outside Venice on certain dates.
With 4.5 out of 5 stars from 25 reviews, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an immersive Venetian experience.
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The Sum Up
Venice offers a wealth of walking tours, each showcasing the city’s rich history and hidden gems. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Jewish Ghetto, following in the footsteps of a literary icon, or discovering the city’s secret corners, there’s a tour to suit your interests. With knowledgeable guides and convenient options, visitors can enjoy the beauty and culture of this enchanting city.